Table 6 Psychological first aid
Approach | Examples |
|---|---|
Providing practical care and support | “Are you cold? Here is a blanket” |
Do not supply solutions | Do not say: “You can have another baby”; do not say: “You’re young, you will marry again” |
Assessing needs and concerns | Need to find family; need for shelter and food |
Helping people address basic needs | Identify resources to help deliver food, water, and essential non-food items |
Listening to people | “Tell me more …” “I hear you saying that …” |
Comforting people | “I cannot imagine how difficult this has been.” “I’m so sorry for what you are going through. I’m here to help.” |
Helping people connect to information, services, and social supports | Identifying resources within the community or through aid agencies |
Protecting people from further harm | Be sensitive that disclosing their experience maybe re-traumatizing |